Gamey: meaning, definitions and examples

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gamey

 

[ ˈɡeɪmi ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

taste

Having the flavor or odor of game, especially when it is slightly tainted or preserved.

Synonyms

gamier, gamy, tangy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gamey

Often used to describe the strong, sometimes slightly wild taste of certain meats such as venison, duck, or lamb. Usually implies a flavor that might not be appealing to everyone.

  • The venison was quite gamey, making it a unique dish
gamier

Comparative form of 'gamey', used when comparing two or more types of meat or dishes, indicating that one has a stronger, more pronounced gamey flavor than the other.

  • The wild duck tasted gamier than the farm-raised one
gamy

Another spelling of 'gamey', used interchangeably to describe the same strong and distinctive flavor of certain meats. This form is less common.

  • The roast had a gamy taste that lingered on the palate
tangy

Used to describe a sharp, zesty, and often somewhat sour or piquant flavor, typically in foods like citrus fruits, sauces, or certain cheeses. Does not carry the same connotations as 'gamey'.

  • The lemon pie was wonderfully tangy and refreshing

Examples of usage

  • The venison had a gamey taste to it.
  • The duck meat was a bit gamey.
Context #2 | Adjective

behavior

Showing a strong and competitive spirit, especially in a way that some may find excessive or undesirable.

Synonyms

aggressive, competitive, feisty.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gamey

Used to describe meat with a strong flavor that comes from wild animals or to indicate an adventurous spirit.

  • The venison has a gamey taste that some people love
  • She has a gamey attitude when it comes to trying new things
competitive

Describes situations or people that show a strong desire to win or be the best, generally in sports, business, or other competitive settings.

  • She has a very competitive nature and always strives to be the best
  • The job market is highly competitive
aggressive

Refers to behavior that is forceful, attacking, or hostile. Often has a negative connotation when describing people.

  • His aggressive speech upset a lot of people
  • The dog can be aggressive if threatened
feisty

Describes someone who is lively, determined, and courageous, often in a small or seemingly weak person.

  • Despite her small size, she's quite feisty and stands up for herself
  • The feisty kitten defended its food against larger cats

Examples of usage

  • His gamey attitude during the match alienated some of his teammates.
  • The coach warned the player about his gamey behavior on the field.

Translations

Translations of the word "gamey" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sabor de caça

🇮🇳 शिकार का स्वाद

🇩🇪 wildiger Geschmack

🇮🇩 rasa daging buruan

🇺🇦 смак дичини

🇵🇱 dziki smak

🇯🇵 野生動物の味

🇫🇷 goût de gibier

🇪🇸 sabor a caza

🇹🇷 av eti tadı

🇰🇷 사냥 고기의 맛

🇸🇦 طعم اللعبة

🇨🇿 chuť zvěřiny

🇸🇰 chuť diviny

🇨🇳 野味

🇸🇮 okus divjačine

🇮🇸 villibráð

🇰🇿 аң еті дәмі

🇬🇪 ნადირობის გემო

🇦🇿 ov əti dadı

🇲🇽 sabor a caza

Etymology

The term 'gamey' originated in the 19th century, derived from the word 'game' in the sense of wild animals hunted for sport or food. Initially used to describe the flavor of such meat, it later extended to refer to behavior reminiscent of such creatures. Over time, 'gamey' has become a versatile term applied to various contexts where a sense of wildness or intensity is present.

See also: gamer, gamers, gaming.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,300, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.